Sedation Options
At Forest Hill Children's Dentistry, we understand how important it is that children learn about their oral health when they are young. Which is why we do everything we can to help our young patients feel less anxious during their visit to the dentist.
We strive to make regular facility improvements so that we may be able to provide a number of sedation options to our anxious patients.
While our general philosophy is to provide dental treatment without the use of sedation, we understand that certain circumstances such as a significant amount of dental work and/or limited patient co-operation may necessitate its use.
Currently, our practice offers both light forms of sedation, such as nitrous oxide and oxygen sedation (laughing gas), in addition to deep sedation and general anesthesia (dentistry asleep).
Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Nitrous oxide with oxygen is inhaled through the nose. The nitrous oxide calms patients even though they remain awake and able to communicate. It can help to lessen anxiety, increase pain threshold, reduce gag reflex, and make time seem to pass more quickly.
Oral Sedation
Oral sedatives are pills or liquids prescribed by your dentist. The medication is taken by mouth at our office before your dental appointment. It leaves you awake for the procedure but produces a calming effect to significantly relax you.
IV Sedation
IV sedatives are administered directly into the bloodstream through the vein for the deepest level of sedation without general anesthesia. Our dental team will set you up on monitoring equipment so the dentist can keep track of vital signs during the procedure.
General Anesthesia
General anesthesia is a controlled state of unconsciousness that eliminates awareness, movement and discomfort during dental treatment. Complex treatments can often be completed in one appointment while you are asleep.